Nixon White House Tapes › Tape 83
Nixon White House Tape 83 (November 15, 1971 – November 16, 1971)
3 conversations · Cabinet Room
Featuring Nixon, Connally, Shultz, Rumsfeld, Ehrlichman
President Nixon met with his Cabinet officers to discuss a variety of domestic and international issues, including transportation leadership, government funding through a continuing resolution, and the cultivation of opium poppies in Turkey. The conversation also touched upon administrative transitions, such as the departure of Secretary of Agriculture Clifford Hardin, and strategies for managing the national economy and price controls. Nixon emphasized the importance of maintaining clear leadership and coordination across departments to ensure the success of his domestic policy initiatives.
President Nixon, John Connally, Donald Rumsfeld, and a delegation of Republican Congressional leaders met to coordinate legislative strategy regarding the administration's domestic economic program and various foreign policy concerns. The discussion focused on the implementation of wage and price controls, pending tax legislation, and the management of international trade negotiations, particularly regarding Japan and the import surcharge. Participants also addressed the confirmation of Supreme Court nominees Lewis F. Powell and William Rehnquist, as well as ongoing legislative battles concerning the Vietnam War and Defense Department appropriations.
President Nixon met with the President’s Committee on Mental Retardation to discuss the status of federal programs, research initiatives, and the ongoing efforts to integrate individuals with intellectual disabilities into community settings. The discussion emphasized shifting away from long-term institutionalization toward modern community-based care models, while also addressing advancements in prenatal diagnosis and genetic counseling for prevention. Nixon praised the committee's work and international outreach, culminating in a gesture of appreciation where he presented commemorative White House gifts to the participants.